Giant whale carcass removal cost City of Greater Geraldton $38,000

The two-day removal process to lift a giant whale carcass from a Geraldton beach cost city ratepayers $38,000.

In July last year, the council made the decision to remove a 20-tonne humpback whale carcass, which had been washed up at Greys Beach for a week.

Two cranes were called in to load the whale onto a truck, and the carcass was transported to the Meru Waste Facility, where it was buried.

Shortly after the two-day operation, which had not come without logistical challenges, mayor Jerry Clune estimated the bill could come in anywhere from $20,000-$50,000.

In December, CEO Ross McKim confirmed the total cost to remove the whale was $38,000.

He said the city’s decision was made after consulting the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.

“The 20-tonne whale that unfortunately washed ashore in July was removed with the help of a local contractor,” Mr McKim said.

“The whale was taken to Meru Waste Management Facility rather than being towed out to sea or left on the beach to decompose to avoid attracting sharks or creating a shipping hazard.”